Trying to return from disc replacement surgery in his neck proved to be too much for Chris Duncan, who was traded to Boston in late July for middle infielder Julio Lugo in a move that unearthed a number of issues.

The St. Louis Cardinals will soon need to offer 2009 contract amounts to five players from just under three up through six years of experience and the five have to counter with their view of their value. If the two cannot agree, arbitration to set the player’s 2009 salary will follow in February.

The St. Louis Cardinals did not offer contracts to lefty relievers Randy Flores and Tyler Johnson, making them free agents, saving money and opening roster spots. Infielder Aaron Miles was also cut loose. Could the Twins and Nick Punto (pictured) partially be to blame? How might the Cards fill the openings?